I can’t remember the last time I sat down to read a medical based novel but I do remember the title because it had a great impact on my desire for reading in my schooldays – A.J. Cronin’s “The Citadel” first published in 1937. If you haven’t read it please do take the time to read one of the best literary authors of the 20th century – I digress! – And no I didn’t read it when it first came out!

Donor by Ken McClure

“The Citadel” finds newly qualified Scottish doctor Andrew Manson travelling to a small mining community in South Wales and is shocked to see how people struggle day after day. Dedicating hours of private time to become a specialist in lung disease he moves to London working for a government department before taking on a private practice. It ironically shares a number of traits with “Donor” not least the battle to make medicine affordable to all.

“Donor”, my first introduction to Ken McClure’s work, struck a chord with me from the very beginning. A punchy start, it hits at the very heart of every parent’s nightmare – the sudden loss of a young child through illness. Highly emotive, the prologue sets the tone for the entire book.

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The narrative is sharp and the plotlines well defined. I found the story believable which made it slightly uncomfortable in parts – purely for the fact that my imagination got the better of me! I won’t mention when or how for fear of spoilers but needless to say McClure knows how to write engaging and atmospheric prose!

A combination of descriptive and dialogue driven narrative, the pace is excellent – finishing the book in two sittings, “Donor” is a veritable page turner and an excellent introduction to Dr Steven Dunbar – the final thirty pages were a blur!

Although laden with scientific facts and medical jargon I never once felt bogged down in industry talk, McClure clearly taking care not to overwhelm the reader with unnecessary use. His experience as a scientific researcher and knowledge in microbiology is there for all to see and is certainly put to good use in “Donor”.

Called in by Sci-Med to investigate Médic Ecosse precarious financial situation, Dunbar discovers the state of the art facility and accommodating staff hide disturbing secrets. Doctor James Ross’s highly successful transplant department is at the centre of his investigation and as he delves deeper into its history he uncovers questionable practices that threaten its very existence.

Running alongside Dunbar’s investigation is the tale of Sandy and Kate, loving parents of seven year old Amanda, who have to come to terms with their daughter’s sudden renal failure. As they face a desperate race against time to find a suitable donor we find Dunbar working tirelessly to unravel the mystery behind two deaths.

A wonderful and fluid novel, “Donor” introduces us to the dynamic Dr Steven Dunbar. A thoroughly likeable and intelligent character who benefits from a well-researched and fact ridden novel. Highly recommended, I can’t wait to read the next instalment.

Published by Polygon/Birlinn “Donor” is available from Book Depository & Amazon